Caramel-Nut Roll
A rich caramel-nut roll featuring buttery caramel, toasted walnuts, and sweet, chewy texture—perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a decadent treat any time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the light brown sugar, sugar, and dark brown Karo syrup in a saucepan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, to 245°F on a candy thermometer.
- Stir in butter or margarine until melted and blended.
- Slowly add evaporated milk, continuing to boil and cook until the mixture reaches 245°F again.
- Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla extract and salt, stirring to combine.
- Pour the hot caramel mixture into a well buttered 9 x 13-inch pan and let it cool until firm.
- Spread walnut halves on waxed paper the size of the pan.
- Turn the cooled caramel out onto the walnuts and press them into the candy.
- Roll the caramel and walnuts as a jelly roll to form a log.
- Slice into sections and wrap each piece in plastic wrap or waxed paper.
- Serve by slicing as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect consistency, use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach 245°F accurately. If you don't have walnuts, pecans can be a delicious substitute. For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. Always stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
Serving Suggestions
These caramel-nut rolls make a delightful treat for gatherings and can be served alongside coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a slice of Moist Coffee Cake for a sweet brunch option. Consider slicing them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at parties or as gifts during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store the caramel-nut rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If they harden too much, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel-Nut Roll contains roughly 172 calories, with 1g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts such as pecans or almonds. Each type will offer a unique flavor and texture to the caramel roll, allowing you to customize it to your preference.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a firm ball, it's ready. This method requires a bit of practice, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
How can I make the caramel softer?
To achieve a softer caramel, reduce the cooking time slightly or lower the temperature to around 240°F. This will result in a chewier texture that may be more enjoyable for some. Experiment to find your preferred consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).